Affordable Care Act: COBRA on offer, can still go to exchange

I just lost my health insurance through my employer, who is now offering me COBRA. Does this disqualify me for subsidies through the insurance marketplace?

In Limbo

Dear In Limbo,

You will still qualify for subsidized health insurance from the exchange, while your COBRA offer is still on the table (i.e. for the 18 months). It’s one of the few circumstances where a person has a choice between a group plan and subsidized/ exchange insurance. (The other is if your income is less than 400% and your employer’s plan does not meet health reform standards, then you can get subsidized insurance too.)

Anyway, you should compare the options. The monthly premiums might be cheaper from the exchange, but the deductibles and co-pays may be higher than your group plan. Take that into account when you make your comparison.